YMCA Ribbon Cutting Held

The new YMCA Patchogue Family Center, located at 255 West Main St., held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday. The center will be open for business on Sept. 7 at 5 a.m.

The $20 million facility, located across from the former Sweezy's department store that now houses Briarcliffe College and Ultimate Fitness Patchogue, has been under construction for several months.

"It has been such a great journey. I really appreciate the community's effort in making this a reality," commented Donna Boyle, the YMCA's executive director.

Several hundred people attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and toured the new facility.

Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri said it's been several decades since a YMCA has been located in Patchogue.

"It's such a community place - families get together and kids have a safe place to be - it's an honor to have it back in Patchogue," he said.

The new YMCA will employ approximately 200 part-time workers during the regular season. During the summer, about 400 part-time workers will operate day camps and vacation programs.

The three-story building features an indoor running track, two basketball courts, a volleyball court, a six-lane pool, a two-story rock-climbing wall, an exercise and aerobics room, three locker rooms, a conference center, a cafe lounge with Wi-Fi access, a teen center, babysitting and daycare. Outside is a fenced-in playground for young children. 
 
YMCA Chairperson George Hoag said the construction has been a long process. 

"I'm very grateful that we could reach this point. There has been a lot of turmoil and difficulties over the years - in finding a location, raising the funding," Hoag said. "It is great to have finally reached this day."

Check the photos to see highlights from the ribbon-cutting and tour of the new YMCA.